Yardbarker
x
Eagles' free agent potential landing spot could solve glaring concern in 2025
Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles have been particular about the moves made, as this is a new era of the team that involves getting younger.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman allowed key players from last year, such as C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, and Darius Slay, to join other teams, whether through trade, release, or not re-signing them. All 12 of the new Eagles that were signed are on one-year deals to add depth and prove their worth to the franchise.

The media believes the Eagles are far from done and are still capable of pulling a Roseman special with a shocking trade or signing that would change the outlook of the team's season. One free agent who isn't as big of a name has been linked to Philadelphia as an ideal landing spot, who could be a sleeper signing for the team.

Could free agent safety Julian Blackmon help the Eagles in 2025?

Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton ranked the top 10 free agents who are under 30 years old. 26-year-old safety Julian Blackmon was ninth on the list as the Eagles and Carolina Panthers were named as ideal landing spots for the free agent.

"Over the last two years, Julian Blackmon has made his presence felt with seven interceptions. At 26, he may still be on the ascent, which earns him a spot at No. 9.

With that said, Blackmon has struggled to provide consistent quality pass coverage. In four out of five seasons, he's allowed a passer rating of 103.2 or higher.

Despite his ability to track the ball, Blackmon may not be the most reliable last-line defender in deep coverage. He's better suited for a split safety scheme, where the coaching staff can position him closer to the line of scrimmage."

The Indianapolis Colts selected Blackmon in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and he was an instant starter on the team. He started 62 of the 66 games he appeared in, racking up 300 tackles, 21 pass deflections, 13 tackles for loss, 10 interceptions, four fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles, and a pick-six.

Blackmon would be a good fit for the Eagles' defense as defensive coordinator Vic Fangio likes versatile, athletic guys who can do multiple things. Blackmon could combine as a safety and play closer to the line in running situations.

Philadelphia is still trying to determine who will start at safety alongside Reed Blankenship. The candidates are Sydney Brown, rookie second-round pick Andrew Mukuba, and Tristin McCollum.

Training camp will determine which one gets the job, but some believe someone could still be brought in to help. Former Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons has been a popular name.

Blackmon would give the Eagles a young safety with starting experience which is a win-win for the team. Will the team actually bring in more competition is the question.


This article first appeared on Inside the Iggles and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!